Alumni Spotlight

"The incredible field experiences and warm community of the West Chester University department of Geology and Astronomy facilitated such a wonderful learning environment. Not only did I learn the technical intricacies of the geoscience field, but most importantly I was taught how to continually apply this knowledge in creative ways to ask more questions and to solve multidisciplinary problems. The amazing faculty in this department created in me an ability to build my career within the context of who I am and where I want to go."

Completing a master’s degree in geoscience at West Chester University opened countless opportunities for me. In addition to allowing me to become licensed as a Professional Geologist, I am now an adjunct professor, a published author with several peer-reviewed publications, and am active on a national scale in research and in professional organizations. The geographical range and scope of my work has increased dramatically based upon the knowledge and experience that I gained through West Chester.

While attending West Chester University, I got the opportunity to be a part of the Geology & Astronomy Department. The well-rounded education I received from West Chester University has set me up to use my degree in a variety of disciplines within the field of Geology and Earth Sciences. Prior to pursing a graduate degree in Economic Geology and Ore Deposits, I had the opportunity to work for an environmental consulting firm directly supporting DuPont. I am currently working as a geologist in the emerging talent program at Newmont Mining Corporation in Denver, Colorado. The emerging talent program allows students coming out of graduate school to get exposed to the different geologic disciplines within the mining industry. My current focus within the program is precious and base metal mineral exploration. Without the solid geologic foundation I received from WCU, I would not have the opportunities I have.

My time at West Chester University set me on a path to become a planetary scientist. George Reed, Sy Greenberg, and the others were more than my teachers; they were my mentors and my friends. What success I’ve achieved as a scientist, I owe in large measure to them.

In obtaining my Masters from WCU, I have been able to combine my passion for both science and children as a Secondary Education Teacher. I have been pleasantly surprised by how rewarding and fulfilling this profession is and I enjoy brightening the minds of students with Astronomy, Geology, Meteorology, Physical Science and Environmental Science. I have WCU to thank for their incredible graduate program and talented professors.

Welcome!

The Department of Geology & Astronomy prepares students for rewarding careers in geoscience and education. The Department offers two Bachelor of Science degree programs in Geoscience, as well as a teaching certification program in both General Science and Earth and Space Science. We also offer a Master of Arts degree in Geoscience that is designed for the professional development of geologists and precollege teachers. Our department is a friendly and exciting place that prides itself on personalized attention to our students.

We offer:

A faculty of nationally-known scholars

Courses that build career skills: problem-solving, cooperative teamwork, field work, and cutting-edge training on scientific instruments

Flexible curriculum with opportunities for independent study research or internships for course credit

A solid foundation for a career in the environmental industry, geology, or teaching in secondary schools

A large alumni network of professional geologists and teachers in the Greater Philadelphia Region

An Earth-Space Science Club, an Honors Society, plus participation in the Women in Science and Astronomy Clubs

Assistantships and scholarships available each semester

Career opportunities in geoscience are excellent:

Demand for geoscientists expected to increase by about 20% through 2020

Come join our community and plan a career to make the world a better, more sustainable place for the future. For more information, please contact the Department of Geology & Astronomy Chair, Dr. Martin Helmke, at mhelmke@wcupa.edu or contact Linda Slack in the main office at 610-436-2727.